Farmers to march to Delhi if talks with Centre fail, says Sarwan Singh Pandher; Dallewal's health worsening
PTC Web Desk: Farmer leader jagjit Singh Dallewal's hunger strike at the Khanauri border has entered its 77th day on Monday, raising serious health concerns. Over the past seven days, Dallewal has been on strike without medical assistance as most of his veins have become blocked, making it difficult for doctors to administer necessary medical aid.
Amid the ongoing protest, the SKM has announced participation in the meeting scheduled in Chandigarh on February 12. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher warned that if the February 14 meeting with the Central Government failed, farmers would march to Delhi on foot on February 25 to intensify their agitation.
During a press conference, farmer leaders highlighted key issues. They said recognising public sentiment for a united movement, farmer leaders have decided to attend the Chandigarh meeting.
Farmers emphasised that the Central Government’s agricultural market policy draft should be incorporated into their demand charter. They also underscored the need for a direct challenge to corporate control over agriculture, asserting that practical steps have already begun.
If the February 14 meeting does not yield results, farmers will march to Delhi on February 25. Leaders expressed disappointment over the government's contradictory stance, citing its statements in Parliament versus its approach in negotiations.
Farmer leader Abhimanyu Kohar said Dallewal's health was deteriorating rapidly due to prolonged fasting. His veins had become blocked within 48 to 72 hours, preventing doctors from administering IV drips. Repeated attempts to insert drips in both arms have failed, and even attempts to use his legs for IV access have been unsuccessful.
Farmer leader Kaka Singh Kotra urged people to strengthen the movement, highlighting that the protest has been ongoing since February 13, 2023. The January 4 Maha Panchayat witnessed a massive gathering, and with the one-year anniversary of the protest approaching, Dallewal has called for nationwide participation to demonstrate farmers’ strength ahead of the upcoming government talks.
Appealing to youth, elders, women, and supporters from across India, leaders have urged mass mobilisation at the protest site to pressure the government into meeting their demands.
- PTC NEWS
